7 Creepiest Restaurants in the world

Creepy, scary, unappetizing – these are hardly the words one would expect to use when describing an interesting restaurant or café. And yet, this is a list of some of the creepiest restaurants in the world. Places known for their shock value, be it an extreme location, bizarre theme and ambience, or just an unimaginable menu for all things out of the ordinary. If you’re bored of the straight and narrow, this list of extremely zany restaurants brought to you by Farebucket may be just the thing for you.

1. Dans Le Noir, Paris/London/St Petersburg/Barcelona

                     

This chain of restaurants introduced the concept of dining in the dark to mainstream restaurants. By blindfolding guests and restricting the sense of sight, the restaurant aims to offer an experience where all the other senses are not just awakened but also heightened. The menu is primarily French-inspired, and usually a surprise to guests who discover what they’ve been served through touch, smell and taste but also through conversations with waiters and fellow diners. While the concept sounds exciting, its certainly not the best recommendation for those who have a fear of the dark!

2. Modern Toilet Restaurant, Taiwan

                                 

Whoever said the toilet is not a good place to eat hasn’t heard of the Modern Toilet Restaurant – a Taiwanese chain of restaurants that as the name suggests are build around a toilet theme. From décor elements to the names of dishes on the menu to the way they look and are presented, everything about this restaurant comes with a touch of being in a toilet. From gratins served in bathtub shaped bowls, to desserts served in urinal-styled bowls, it’s truly a test for only those who can stomach it!

3. Heart Attack Grill, Las Vegas

 Where waitresses are dressed like nurses, your order is called a prescription and you’re given a hospital gown to wear before you dig into your coronary-inducing meal – that’s the Heart Attack Grill, for you. A hamburger restaurant like no other, ever item on the menu here has the potential to pile on more calories than you would care to indulge in, putting you in serious danger of busting an artery or giving your heart a jolt. On the menu are things like a ½ Pound Coronary Dog, Onion Rings deep fried in pure lard, Flatliner Fries, Bypass Burgers amongst several other things laced with naughty innuendos. If that encourages you enough to try out this creepy restaurant, head to the Heart Attack Grill in Las Vegas.

4. New Lucky Restaurant, Ahmedabad

                               

If dining in the dark is mild, try dining with the dead at New Lucky Restaurant in Ahmedabad. Believed to be located exactly where a graveyard once was, the restaurant has not-so-pleasant interruptions in the décor and ambience by way of graves that were left untouched when the restaurant was built. Local loyalists come back faithfully to have the bun-maska-chai (buttery bread rolls served with milky Indian tea) and are rather unperturbed by the coffins lying within the restaurant.

5. Eternity, Ukraine

                      

It’s called a coffin bar, and the restaurant takes its name rather seriously. Eternity is quite literally built inside a casket and completely lives up to its death and funeral theme. Run by the local funeral parlour and undertakers, it’s got all the makings of a creepy meal experience, replete with dim lighting, creepy candle-lit settings and a menu filled with ominous-sounding food. Definitely a place for those inclined to all things morbid and have a taste for the extraordinary.

6. Vampire Café, Tokyo

Taste a macabre kind of culinary experience at the Vampire Café. From large pictures of red blood cells on the red walls to randomly placed coffins scattered in the restaurant, Goth-dressed waiters and red cocktails with syringes used as food props – this café gets full marks for sticking to theme and invoking a seriously spooky feeling from the word go. If you get past the décor and ambience and order the bloody drinks and food, you get full marks for stomaching this seriously morbid restaurant too!

7. Dinner In The Sky, Belgium

                     

Suspended mid-air, at exactly the point where an appetite for extreme experiences meets the love for an out of the world dining experience, is Dinner In The Sky. A travelling concept restaurant, it literally affords an experience of dining in the sky. Your dinner table, along with your guests and waiters is suspended at a dizzying height of 150 feet, with 360 degree views all around.

10 Things You Need to Do Before Any International Trip

                          

Memorize the following and make it your mantra: Good travel is the result of good planning. That applies to any trip you take, but it’s especially true when you’re heading to a foreign country. It can be tempting to book a ticket and start fantasizing about your getaway, but there’s work to be done. In addition to the planning any trip requires—lodging, restaurants, activities, and so on—international travel calls for extra steps and research to ensure a stress-free experience. Fortunately, we’ve broken it all down into a ten-point plan that will help make your next international getaway a success.

1. CHECK YOUR PASSPORT AND APPLY FOR ANY NECESSARY VISAS.

While it’s not necessary to memorize your passport’s expiration date, it’s best to take a look at it—and to verify that you know where your passport is stored—before making any international travel plans. Generally speaking, you want your passport to be valid for at least six months after entering a foreign country, though some nations will let you get away with less; refer to the State Department’s website for full details, organized by country. If its expiration date is approaching, you’ll need to renew your passport before your next overseas trip.

Though not a universal requirement, tourist visas are needed to visit many nations around the world, and the application process varies greatly from country to country. If you have an American passport, the State Department’s website is the best resource for determining if you need to apply for a tourist visa based on the countries you’re visiting and how much time you plan to spend in each one. It’s important to note that applying for a visa can be costly and time-consuming, so it’s best to get it out of the way as soon as possible. Some countries, like China, offer multi year visas that allow for multiple entries and exits; if there’s a chance you’ll return to a country sooner rather than later, multi year visas can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.

2. GET VACCINATED AND STOCK UP ON MEDICINE.

Depending on where you’re going, you may need to get special vaccines or medications as a precaution against various diseases. For the most comprehensive and up-to-date medical recommendations, check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website, which also lists health advisories by country. In addition, if you routinely take any prescription medication, make sure you have enough to cover the duration of your travels so that you don’t run out while you’re overseas. Finally—and especially if you’re going to any remote regions—it’s wise to pack non-prescription medicines (aspirin, Imodium, etc.) that may not be easy to find.

3. CHECK FOR TRAVEL WARNINGS/ADVISORIES AND REGISTER YOUR TRIP.

Before you travel abroad, refer to the State Department’s Consular Information Program for Travel Alerts (“short-term events we think you should know about when planning travel to a country”) and Travel Warnings (“We issue a Travel Warning when we want you to consider very carefully whether you should go to a country at all.”). It’s worth checking for these notices both before you book a trip and just before you depart. You should also enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which makes it easier for the State Department to assist you in the event of an emergency. Similarly, write down the addresses and phone numbers of any American embassies or consulates in the destinations you’ll be visiting, in case you need to contact them.

4. PREPARE YOUR FINANCES.

Before you travel overseas, call your bank and credit card providers to let them know where you’ll be; if the companies see foreign charges with no notice that you’re abroad, they might freeze your cards, which can be quite annoying if you’re in a shop or trying to pay for dinner. Before you travel internationally, be aware of the exchange rate and know how much things generally cost wherever you’re going so that you get some sense of how much you’re going to spend. If you want to get traveler’s checks, feel free to do so, but know that they are not widely accepted and are exchanged at a less favorable rate than the one you’ll find at an ATM, no matter where you are in the world.

5. MAKE COPIES OF TRAVEL DOCUMENTS.

Most importantly, have at least one color copy of your passport’s ID page stored somewhere safe and separate from your passport. You should also make copies of any visas that pertain to your current travels. Hotel reservations, train ticket confirmations, and all other travel documents should be copied as well. In this digital age, it is very convenient (and eco-friendly) to only have digital copies of these documents handy. That’s fine, but be sure that these items are saved to your device locally so that you can access them without an Internet connection. Also, if you’re going to store sensitive information (like a scan of your passport) on your phone or in your email inbox, make sure your passwords are strong enough to keep potential intruders out.

6. OBTAIN AN INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT.

The international road trip of your dreams isn’t going to happen unless you plan correctly. That’s because it’s illegal to drive without a valid driver’s license and insurance in most countries, and many do not recognize U.S. driver’s licenses. Car rental companies usually offer insurance, but for the license you’ll need to obtain an International Driving Permit, either from AAA or the National Auto Club. It’s also smart to familiarize yourself with local driving laws wherever you plan to drive. Contact foreign embassies for official rules and regulations regarding driving.

7. GET ALL THE NECESSARY GEAR FOR YOUR ELECTRONICS.

Electrical outlets are different all over the world, so you’ll need to have adapters that allow your devices to plug into foreign sockets. Your best bet is to buy an adapter with different settings that adjust to most outlets, so you only have to worry about one adapter instead of one per country. You also need to check the strength of the electrical current wherever you’re going and make sure your devices are compatible—cell phones and computers often are. If you have a device that’s not compatible with a higher or lower current, then you’ll need to buy a transformer or leave that gadget at home. Finally, if you don’t own them already, it’s worth investing in portable phone chargers and/or spare batteries that can be charged and swapped into phones, cameras, and other electronics so that you can stay fully charged while you’re on the go.

8. LEARN KEY PHRASES IN THE LOCAL LANGUAGE.

Of course it’s best practice to learn basics like “Hello,” “Thank you,” and “Where is the bathroom?”, but the more you can say in the local tongue, the better. Then there are times when being able to effectively communicate is a matter of health and safety. If you have any food allergies or severe medical conditions, it’s important to learn how to inform others about those issues in a foreign language. If you don’t feel comfortable with your language abilities, then cheat and print out a document with relevant phrases or make flashcards that you can carry with you.

9. RESEARCH ENTRANCE AND EXIT FEES.

Regardless of whether a country requires you to obtain a tourist visa, it may levy an entrance and/or exit fee against you. For example, Argentina allows U.S. citizens to visit for up to ninety days without a visa, but a $160 “reciprocity fee” must be paid before entering the country—you won’t be allowed in without a copy of the receipt. Once again, the Consular Information Program is the most reliable resource for determining whether a country charges these fees; on any country page, look under the Entry, Exit & Visa Requirements tab for complete information.

10. BUY HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE.

Before you travel, check your health insurance policy to see if it includes international coverage. If not, consider buying a short-term policy that will cover you while you’re abroad, in case something should happen. Similarly, a smart way to protect your trip and your money is to purchase travel insurance. Policies and coverage vary from provider to provider, but the basic idea is that you can have your money refunded if your trip has to be cancelled, postponed, or cut short for any number of reasons.

Weekend Getaways from Hyderabad

There are destinations that are perfect for one of those days when you

are running tight on money. A cheap trip is sometimes what you actually need;

and I know you couldn’t agree more. Let us also learn about which are the

budget places to visit near Hyderabad that guarantees absolute rejuvenation as well.

Bidar:

Forts and massive ruins are the main attractions in Bidar (Karnataka),

which is situated at distance of about 147kms from Hyderabad. A quiet

little place that is away from the deafening clamour of city life, at

Bidar you can enjoy a walk down rich Indian history. As a traveller,

you would be greatly interested in taking pictures here as it offers

a number of picturesque frames that will certainly get ample of likes

from your Facebook and Google plus friends. Bidar Fort, Bahmani Tombs,

Khwaja Mahmud Gawan Madrasa and Choukhandi are the top places to visit

in Bidar. Since you are travelling cheap, you might like to keep your

food bill under control as well and that is why you may want to eat at

Jyothi Udupi, which serves variety of sumptuous dosa at reasonable prices.

Warangal:

Ancient and mesmerizing! You will fall for Warangal, which is located about

143kms away from Hyderabad and is now a part of the newly formed Telagana

state. Once the ruling seat of Kakatiya Dynasty, Warangal is famous for its

temple architecture and its majestic fort.  The main places of interest in

Warangal are Warangal Fort, Bhadrakali Temple, Thousand Pillar Temple and

Ramappa Temple. If you have decided to drive on your own, you can visit

many places en route to Warangal from Hyderabad like Bhongir Fort, Pembarti,

Kolanupaka (Jain Temple) and Jangaon. As it is a full-fledged city, you

can find a large range of accommodation options here that offers great stay

without burning a hole in your pocket. Warangal is certainly a break from

the routine tourist destinations and can prove to be a great weekend escape.

Nagarjunasagar:

Situated somewhere around 164kms from the city of Hyderabad, Nagarjunasagar

is where all the action takes place over the weekend! Nagarjunasagar is ideal

for one-day trips and is the best getaway from Hyderabad, unless you are

willing to spend some solitary time here. Nagarjunasagar is basically famous

for its 124m high dam and the isolated Nagarjunakonda. A steam boat ride is

something that you shall enjoy her: however there aren’t any hotels in

Nagarjunasagar or Nagarjunakonda, so you have to book accommodations in

Mriyalguda and Machrela as they have many hotels in this region.

Nizamabad:

Nizamabad is a prominent tourist attraction in Telangana and situated 176kms

from Hyderabad. The place is a reflection of rich Indian culture and offers a

pleasant stay during the weekend break. Architecture and nature has been blended

in perfect amount here and you shall love exploring the off-beat trekking trails

that often lead to waterfalls. The ancient temple at Kanteshwar, which is

believed to be 500 years old, is another major attraction in Nizamabad. Bada

Pahad Dargah is yet another place that you must visit here. For a weekend

Nizamabad is certainly a great idea.

Karimnagar:

Heritage is what keeps Karimnagar on its feet. Heart winning architecture dots

the city and you shall love posing here and capturing frames that include amazing

reflection of rich Indian culture. Karimnagar is situated around 164kms from

Hyderabad and is a great weekend holiday idea for those who love architecture

 photography. Jagityala fort, Dhulikatta, Elagandal fort and Shivaram sanctuary

are the places of interest in and around Karimnagar. You must shop for metal with

a filigree work on it from here as a memoir.

Nalgonda:

Old world charm is what fascinates one in Nalgonda, which is situated about

83kms from Hyderabad. The prime attraction of the place is Nandikonda Village

that preserves ancient ruins of Buddhist monastery and pillared hall. Other

than that you can also visit Sri Laxminarsimha Swamy Temple and Chhaya

Somalingeswara Temple. Beside the ancient ruins, Nalgonda is a quite little

town that offers a laidback weekend holiday easing your mind and refreshing

it thoroughly.

Mahbubnagar:

This destination is yet another popular weekend getaway from Hyderabad and is

situated at a distance of 100kms. I like to call it the city of ‘Kohinoor Diamond’,

as this is where the diamond originated. You shall find a number of temples that

are worth a visit in Mahbubnagar and there is also a 700 years old huge Banyan

Tree that you might be interested in seeing. Jama Masjid, Medina Masjid, Mecca

Masjid and Umamaheshwaram, Mallelatheertham and Koilsagar are some of the best

places to visit in Mahbubnagar.

TOP DESTINATIONS TO VISIT IN OCTOBER

GOA

Boasting of sun-kissed beaches with white sands, glistering sea waves and more, the fun and frolic Goa is one of the most popular beach destinations of India. Your vacation here would not be an ordinary one as this lovely state has much to offer to tourists that flock it in crazy number, every year. Embedded with the Arabian Sea, this laid-back destinations offers a memorable vacation that is an ideal mix of serenity, sightseeing and adventure. The month of October is ideal to witness the experiences that this destination has to offer. You can partake in water sports, savor sumptuous local food, explore the churches and forts or simply just laze around in Goa.


                   

HIMACHAL PRADESH

Blessed with abundant natural beauty of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and lush meadows and valleys, Himachal Pradesh boasts of housing several picturesque hill stations that are frequented by tourists, all round the year. After rains, the month of October is the perfect time to visit the popular destinations for enjoying sightseeing, partaking in adventure activities, indulge in shopping, have a rendezvous with the wildlife and so on. Kullu-Manali, Shimla, Dalhousie, Dharamshala, Great Himalayan National Park, Chail and Kasauli are some of the famed destinations of Himachal. Enjoy activities like zip lining, rafting, mountain biking, mountain climbing, trekking, para-sailing and so on.

                  

RAJASTHAN

The Land of the Royalty, Rajasthan is one of the most vibrant states of India, frequented by national and foreign in crazy numbers. The onset of October month brings with itself a pleasant weather with cooler morning and nights when the temperatures get low. This splendid place has much to offer wonderful forts and palaces, varied exotic fauna, colorful markets filled with amazing goods, village visits, wholesome food, several great festivals and fairs, camel rides, desert safaris etc. Visit Rajasthan to get a sneak-peek into the life of the erstwhile Kings and Queens of the region.

KERALA

This South Indian state is known as a tropical paradise and is one of the leading tourist destinations in the country. The region of Kerala runs down the Western Ghats and ends to the Arabian Sea covering the wide range of vegetations and landscape. Kerala is famous for its backwaters, hills, spices, sandy beaches, Ayurvedic spas and more. The state of Tamil Nadu lies to the east and the state of Karnataka, lies to the North. Kerala is home to numerous religions, so you can find Hindu temples, mosques and churches. The ideal time to visit Kerala would be in the month of October, it is cool and pleasing after the showers of the monsoon.

                         

KANYAKUMARI

Former ‘Cape Camorin’, during the reign of the British is our present Kanyakumari. This small town is situated at the meeting point of the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea and the Indian ocean, in the southernmost part of India. The interesting feature of the place is that, you can witness a sunrise and a sunset in the same spot. The place is also known for Swami Vivekananda, one of the greatest philosophers in India who spent some part of his life here. In dedication to Vivekananda, there is a headstone erected along the shore. The best time to visit Kanyakumari is from October to February as you can enjoy all the sightseeing sites and the water activities. Moreover,  it is this time the Cape festival takes place.

                

KOLKATA

The former capital of the British Raj, Kolkata still dwells within the colonial architecture. The city is the perfect blend of old and modern in various fields, we witness people who are rich in culture and tradition along with ultra westernized ones; and the slum occupants as opposed to the ones who live the high life. The best part about this city is that the residents are happy and welcoming than in other parts of the country. The best time to visit Kolkata is during the Duheera festival, in October, the celebration is elaborate. Moreover the temperature decreases and makes the place pleasant.


                       

VARANASI

Varanasi is located along the banks of the Ganga in Uttar Pradesh, and is the holiest places for the Hindus, Bhuddists and the Jains. The place is filled with old temples, palaces, and fringing  terraces (Ghats) along the Ganga. Hindu pilgrims come all the way from other states just to bathe in the holy water of Ganga. You can find yourself amidst the chaotic and vibrant markets and derive peace by cruising across the river in the morning hours . Varanasi has a very extreme climate, so starting from October and March is the best time to visit.

MYSORE

Mysore holds a very rich past and heritage within the state of Karnataka and is also called the “city of palaces”. The city has been built with great planning, the vibrant palaces and the busy markets are very alluring. The city is famous for premium silk productions, sandalwood, incense and more. Mysore is a must visit place, once you are travelling down South, you will be enchanted by the magnificent Mysore Palace and the striking fountain dance at the Brindavan Garden. October - February is the best time to visit Mysore; the weather becomes cool and pleasant. During October, the tourists can witness the festival of Dussehra being celebrated on a grand scale.

Top Destinations for Weekend Trips

1. Mahabalipuram

Listed as a World Heritage Site because of its ancient archaeological wonders, this fascinating place is also known as Mamallapuram or as some call it - “Mahabs”. It is a laid-back town which most travellers flock to.

Attractions: The windswept Shore Temple is a sight worth catching on the water’s edge. Mahabs is known for the Five Rathas (sculptured temples in the shape of chariots) and Arjun’s Penance (huge carvings on a rock depicting scenes from the Mahabharata).

The Mamallapuram Dance Festival is a remarkable event that one cannot miss. Other religious sights are the Krishna Mandapa, Trimurti Cave Temple, Ganesh Ratha and Draupadi Ratha. The Sculpture museum is a treasure trove of the most magnificent sculptures and paintings in the city.

Distance from Chennai: 52 km

Best time to visit: December - March

2. Pulicat

A small seashore township, Pulicat resides in the Thiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu on the island of Sriharikota dividing the Pulicat Lake from Bay of Bengal. Itis renowned for its invigorating sights worth catching a glimpse of.

Attractions: The major attractions of the place are the beach, the Dutch cemetery, Fort, church and particularly the bird sanctuary where a variety of migratory birds reside. Between December and January, the Tourism Board organizes the Flamingo festival when thousands of the bird species align on the swampy regions of the Pulicat Lake. Two neighbouring villages of Vedurupattu and Nelapattu are other attractions here.

Distance from Chennai: 55 Kms

Best time to visit: October - March

3. Kanchipuram

Also known as the “Silk City”, the popular city of Kanchipuram is not only reputed for its world famous traditionally crafted silk sarees but also its culture and civilization with its glorious display of a thousand temples. If you aim to visit someplace religious, historical and entertaining altogether,Kanchipuram is one of the best weekend getaways around Chennai.

Attractions: Considered the city of thousand temples, Kanchipuram has temples that stand proof of the Dravidian legacy left behind some of which are Ekambareswarar, Kamakshi Amman, Devarajaswami and Kailasanathar.

Another must-visit sight is KanchiKudil, a 90 year ancestral home resembling the olden style of architecture of the entire town. Additionally, a prominent attraction is the Vedanthangla Bird Sanctuary is a bird watcher’s paradise.

Distance from Chennai: 72 km

Best time to visit: September - March

5. Vellore

The Fort City of Tamil Nadu, as it is affectionately called, Vellore has the perfect blend of rich cultural heritage reminiscent of the ancient Dravidian civilization as well as picturesque scenery. Thus it is an ideal weekend getaway from Chennai.

Attractions:A monument of National importance and a noted tourist attraction, Vellore Fort marks as one of the most prominent landmarks in the city. Within the fort are the ancient Jalakanteswara Temple and the epic State Government Museum.

Srilakshmi Golden Temple that is coated with gold both in the exteriors and interiors is another must-visit in Vellore. Additionally, the Archaeology Survey of Indian Museum is another that must be up on your to-do list. 

Distance from Chennai: 136 kms

Best time to visit: October - March

6. Pondicherry

Fondly termed as ‘Pondy’, this former French colony is a sea of tranquillity what with its quiet, clean cobbled streets and colonial townhouses aligned beside them. The vibe of the township is a faded colonial bohemian chic with a touch of new age international French culture.

The presence of the internationally recognized Sri Aurobindo Ashram lends in the peaceful yoga-like feel to the place. By popular demand, Pondy has earned itself a number on the list of most popular weekend getaways from Chennai.

Attractions: There are several sights of tourist interest in Pondy. The first that comes to mind is the French Quarter, a quaint little neighbourhood laced with cobbled streets, white and mustard romantic colonial buildings. The most well-known landmark is the Sri Aurobindo Ashram founded in 1926 that is un-missable when here.

A series of religious attractions are favourites here as well, namely Notre Dame des Anges, Our lady of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Sacred Heart Basilica and Sri ManakulaVinayagar temple.

Distance from Chennai: 161 Km

Best time to visit: October - February

7. Nellore

Plonked in the state of Andhra Pradesh, Nellore is an ancient town that existed since the time when the Mauryan Empire ruled under the kingship of 

Attractions: The environs of Nellore offer some interesting places as tourist attractions namely the Pulicat Lake and the Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary. Other attractions of a man-made nature are the Somasila Dam, Udaygiri Fort and SatishDhawan Space Centre.

Distance from Chennai:177 Kms

Best time to visit: December - February

8. Yelagiri

Get pleasantly lost in the magical hill station of Yelagiri, in the Vellore district of Tamil Nadu. Have a tryst with the charming neighbourhood of tribal villages in here.It is because of the tranquillity and solitude of this hillock that Yelagiri scores high on the list of most popular weekend getaways around Chennai.

Attractions: Yelagiri is for those seeking an easy-paced holiday away from the madness of the city. Perhaps the signature landmark of the place is the Punganoor artificial lake-cum-park where tourists can enjoy a walk or some boating.

Additionally, the picturesque Swami Malai Hills are a dreamy treat to the eyes. One can even take a walk by the cascading waters of the majestic Jalagamparai Falls.

Distance from Chennai: 227 Km

Best time to visit: November - February

9. Tharangambadi

A tiny windswept town in Tamil Nadu which goes by the Danish name of Tranquebar, Tharangambadiis the ideal weekend getaway if heritage buildings, cultural history and architecture is your thing. The beachy town is also affectionately termed as the “village of the dancing waves.”

Attractions: Besides Fort Dansborg where Danish manuscripts and sculptures are the only remnants of the Danish East India Company, there are a ton of churches that are must-visits here. One of the most significant ones is the Zion Church, a new Jerusalem church built in 1701. There is also the Danish Museum for those of who keen of studying the antiques belonging to the colonial period.

Distance from Chennai: 283 kms

Best time to visit: February- August

10. Yercaud

Cuddled in the verdant green environs and undulating hills of Salem district of Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is a mystical destination. Escape into the array of flora and fauna of this sleepy little getaway when here.

Attractions: The stunning Yercaud Lake which is surrounded by gardens and woods is one you should not miss. The Pagoda Point is another site where you can catch the panoramic view of the enchanting town. Some other natural gems of Yercaud are the Kiliyur Waterfalls, Lady’s Seat, Silk Farm and Rose Garden, Deer Park, Bears Cave, Kottachedu Teak Forest and Anna Park.

Distance from Chennai: 358 km

Best time to visit: October - June

Celebration of Ganesh chaturthi in Mauritius

Mauritius is a culturally rich heritage island marking unity in diversity. Ganesh Chaturthi is also a holiday in Mauritius. Due to differences in the Hindu calendar, it may fall on a different day to the Indian festival.

Celebrations in Mauritius can be dated back to 1896 when the first Ganesh Chaturthi Puja was held in the Seven Cascades Valley by the Bhiwajee family. The family still celebrate the festival to this day, but over the last century, the popularity of the festival has spread so much across the island that it is now an official public holiday.

Hinduism being the main culture of Mauritius with 52 percent of the population, all the Hindus of the island country celebrates this festival with great fervor. All the devotees of Lord Ganesha do pujas in the temples and celebrate the festival.

People from different towns and villages join in the process of the immersion of lord Ganesha’s idol. They all gather along the beaches of the island country and take part in the immersion ceremony. The statue of lord Ganesha is also worshipped in many family and households and then these statues are also taken to the rivers and seas for immersion.

What is Special About Jaipur?

Jaigarh Fort in Jaipur was regarded as the stronghold constructed by Sawan Jai Singh II. This intact fort is encircled by huge battlements and is also connected to the Amer Fort through subterranean passages. The main motive being the construction of the fort was to protect the Amer Fort and the Palace within the complex. Jaigarh Fort has been constructed similarly in terms of architecture to that of the Amer Fort. The fort also becomes a must visit as it provides a panoramic view of the Jaipur city. 

The world's largest cannon on wheels, housed in the fort, also make this a popular tourist attraction. The palace is also must-visit due to its features such as the palace complex, ‘Shubhat Niwas’ - the assembly hall, a museum and an armory. The intricate architecture of the fort is worth appreciation and thus, the story of the huge treasure buried under the fort also makes the fort popular amidst tourists. Achrol Lodge/House is one of the finest luxury hotels in Jaipur, located in proximity with the attraction. - See more at: http://www.heritagehotelsofindia.com/articles/whats-special-about-jaipurs-top-10-attractions#sthash.6Jhh6Qpb.dpuf